What is Positive Behaviour Support

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is an evidence-based approach used to improve a person’s quality of life and reduce the frequency of intense distress. It is grounded in the understanding that all actions are a form of communication.


When someone’s environment, sensory needs, or emotional health are not being met, they may react in ways that are difficult for them or the people around them. PBS works by identifying these "unmet needs" and changing the world around the person to make it a safer, easier place to live.


The core mechanics of PBS include:

Understanding the "Why": We look at the history, health, and environment of the individual to see what is triggering distress.

Proactive Strategies: We change the environment (lighting, noise, routines) and communication styles to prevent overwhelm before it starts.

Skill Development: We help the individual learn new ways to express their needs and navigate big emotions.
Reducing Restrictions: A primary goal of PBS is to move away from "controlling" a person and toward creating a life of freedom and safety.


What Your Time With

Waves Looks Like

Phase 1: Connection and Understanding

The first few weeks are all about building a relationship and understanding your world. Our initial session is informal - we don’t "assess" you; we simply listen to your story, your preferences, and what truly matters to you.


During this time, we begin building the foundation of your Support Plan. If there are immediate safety concerns, we will also work with you to create a Risk Assessment that prioritises regulation and care.


Face-to-Face Sessions: Initially, we usually meet weekly or fortnightly. We focus on "being with" rather than "doing." We believe strategies only work once a foundation of trust has been established. If funding allows it, we can continue this momentum.


Interim Support Plan (IBSP): If needed, we’ll create an Interim Plan around weeks 3–4. This provides immediate guidance for your support network so they can support you confidently while we get to know each other better. This plan usually takes around 10–15 hours to write and is a temporary document designed to immediately manage high-risk behaviours, ensure safety, and guide support workers.


Phase 2: Learning and Trialling

Once we have a strong connection, our sessions may move to a monthly rhythm. In this phase, we move deeper into understanding the "why" behind certain challenges.


Instead of just "collecting data," we observe and learn alongside you to see what strategies actually feel right in your daily life. We trial different approaches to see what helps you feel most regulated and supported.


Phase 3: Your Comprehensive Map

With everything we’ve learned together, we create a Comprehensive Behaviour Support Plan. This isn't just a clinical document; it’s a deep, respectful map of your strengths, sensory needs, and specific guidance for the people around you. A Comprehensive Plan will take approximately 20 hours to write.


Once the plan is ready, we provide dedicated training for your support team (family, carers, or staff) to ensure they can implement the strategies in a way that respects your autonomy and choice.


Phase 4: Flow and Review

After your plans are in place, our support becomes a steady, less frequent presence. We focus on monitoring how things are going, reviewing progress, and updating the plan as your life evolves.


We always encourage feedback to ensure our support remains person-centred. As you approach the end of your NDIS plan, we complete End-of-Plan Reports several weeks in advance to ensure your funding and support continue without a hitch.

Positive Behaviour Support Pricing

At Waves WA, we are committed to transparency. We align our fees with the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits, which are reviewed annually to reflect current industry standards and ensure your funding is used effectively.


NDIS Funded Services

Current fees as of 1st July 2025 for non-remote participants):

  • Specialist Behavioural Intervention Support (Item number: 11_022_0110_7_3) — $232.99 per hour
  • Behaviour Management Plan & Training (Item number: 11_023_0110_7_3) — $232.99 per hour


Therapeutic Support for Evidence Building

We understand that some NDIS plans do not initially include a specific budget for Behaviour Support. In these cases, we can provide support under your Therapeutic Support line item on a short-term basis. This allows us to gather the necessary evidence and provide a formal Letter of Support to justify the need for dedicated Behaviour Support funding in your next NDIS plan.


Private Paying Participants

For individuals or families who are not NDIS-funded or prefer to pay out-of-pocket, we offer a private rate of $200 per hour.


Travel

Waves WA charges for travel to (and in some cases from) your home or chosen meeting place. This is calculated as a portion of the hourly rate for the service being provided, strictly in accordance with NDIS Pricing Arrangements. We aim to be as efficient as possible with travel to ensure your funding is prioritised for direct support.


Important Information

  • Non-Face-to-Face Support: Our hourly rate applies to direct sessions as well as essential "behind the scenes" work. This includes developing your Behaviour Support Plan, writing NDIS progress reports, and professional collaboration with your other support providers.
  • Cancellations: We require 2 clear business days’ notice for cancellations. In line with NDIS policy, sessions cancelled at short notice will be charged at the full fee to cover the time reserved for your support.
  • Service Agreements: Before we begin, we will provide a clear Service Agreement. This document ensures there are no surprises, outlining all fees, policies, and mutual expectations so you feel in control of your journey from day one.